Nebulizer treatments for cough
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Nebulizer Treatments for Cough: Key Options and Effectiveness
Herbal Nebulizers for Cough Relief in Respiratory Illness
Recent research has explored the use of herbal nebulizers, specifically marshmallow and eucalyptus, for reducing cough severity in patients with respiratory illnesses like COVID-19. In a clinical trial, both marshmallow and eucalyptus nebulizers significantly reduced cough intensity compared to no treatment, with marshmallow showing the greatest improvement. These findings suggest that herbal nebulizers can be a helpful addition to standard cough management, especially in hospitalized patients with persistent cough symptoms .
Lidocaine Nebulizers for Intractable and Post-Operative Cough
Nebulized lidocaine has been studied extensively for its ability to suppress intractable cough, particularly in hospice care and post-operative settings. Multiple studies and reviews have found that nebulized lidocaine provides rapid and significant cough relief, often within 15 minutes, and can last for several hours. It is generally well tolerated, with mild side effects such as oropharyngeal numbness and bitter taste. However, caution is advised in patients with asthma or COPD due to the risk of bronchoconstriction 234610. In tracheostomy patients, lidocaine nebulizers were more effective than saline alone in reducing both cough and pain after surgery . Additionally, mesh nebulizers delivering lidocaine were found to be more effective than jet nebulizers in reducing post-procedure cough in children undergoing bronchoscopy .
Nebulized Morphine for Severe Cough in Advanced Cancer
For patients with advanced cancer experiencing severe, intractable cough, nebulized morphine has been reported to provide effective symptom relief. In case reports, increasing doses of nebulized morphine led to marked reductions in cough severity without significant systemic side effects, allowing patients to continue treatment comfortably .
Nebulization Therapy in Children with Bronchopneumonia
Nebulization therapy, in general, has shown effectiveness in children with bronchopneumonia by reducing cough frequency, aiding secretion clearance, and improving overall comfort. After several days of therapy, children experienced fewer coughs and less respiratory distress .
Capsaicin Nebulization and Cough Desensitization
A pilot study investigated the use of nebulized capsaicin paired with behavioral cough suppression therapy for refractory chronic cough. The treatment group showed a substantial reduction in cough frequency, indicating that capsaicin nebulization may help desensitize the cough reflex in some patients .
Conclusion
Nebulizer treatments offer a range of options for managing cough, from herbal solutions like marshmallow and eucalyptus to pharmacological agents such as lidocaine and morphine. Lidocaine nebulizers are particularly effective for intractable or post-operative cough, while morphine nebulizers can help in advanced cancer cases. Herbal and general nebulization therapies also provide benefits in specific populations, such as children with respiratory infections. Overall, nebulizer treatments are valuable tools for cough management, but patient selection and monitoring for side effects are important, especially in those with underlying respiratory conditions 12345678+2 MORE.
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